Nature Season 37 Episode 11 Living Volcanoes
- TV-PG
- February 20, 2019
- 53 min
-
(15)
In the 37th season of the popular documentary series Nature, episode 11 is titled Living Volcanoes. The episode explores how some of the world's most active and dangerous volcanoes provide some of the richest and most diverse ecosystems on the planet.
Living Volcanoes takes viewers on a journey through the volcanic landscapes of Hawaii, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. In these locations, volcanoes have created unique ecosystems, filled with diverse plant and animal life that have adapted to the harsh conditions of the volcanic environment.
The episode begins in Hawaii, where viewers are introduced to the Kilauea volcano. This volcano has been erupting continuously since 1983, creating new land and a constantly changing environment. Despite the constant eruptions, the area surrounding Kilauea is home to a variety of creatures, including the Hawaiian honeycreeper and the Nene goose, a species of goose that is endemic to Hawaii. The episode explores how these animals have adapted to life on an active volcano and how natural disasters such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions have shaped their evolution over time.
From Hawaii, the documentary takes viewers to Africa, where they explore the volcanic landscapes of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. These areas are home to some of the last remaining populations of mountain gorillas, a critically endangered species. Viewers will witness how volcanoes have played a vital role in the survival of mountain gorillas, providing them with a safe haven from human encroachment and poaching.
In the Democratic Republic of Congo, the episode takes viewers to the Nyiragongo volcano, which is known for having one of the most active lava lakes in the world. Despite the danger posed by the volcano, some people continue to live and work in its vicinity. The documentary explores the relationship between these communities and the volcano, and how they have adapted to living in such an extreme environment.
Throughout the episode, Living Volcanoes aims to highlight the importance of understanding and protecting these unique environments. Volcanoes are often seen as destructive forces of nature, but this documentary encourages viewers to recognize that they also play a critical role in the preservation of life on earth. By showcasing the diverse and vibrant ecosystems that thrive in these volcanic landscapes, Living Volcanoes demonstrates that nature is capable of overcoming even the most challenging of environments.
Overall, Living Volcanoes is a fascinating and educational episode that takes viewers on a thrilling journey through some of the world's most unique and dynamic landscapes. It is a perfect example of the high-quality documentary filmmaking that is the trademark of the Nature series.